Reddit reviews The Agony and the Ecstasy: A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo

That's fair. I think the reason quotes like the above attract people because they are digestible and easy to think about. It's obvious that Conor McGregor would not suggest everyone literally starts at the same stage and is making excuses but for the vast majority of people hard work IS the answer.

Michelangelo said something along the lines of, "If people knew how hard I worked, they would not say I was talented." I read the quote years ago and thought nothing of it, "blah blah another artist saying he's not naturally gifted"...then I read his biography and it damn near made me cry to see how hard he worked. (if you're interested, it was a novelized but extremely well-researched bio, The Agony and the Ecstasy )

The Agony and the Ecstasy Historical fiction. Researched incredibly well.

Additionally, he was portraying a very young David. Most artists of the time chose to sculpt a fully mature male figure, while Michelangelo's David was meant to be on the cusp of adulthood. The ratio to head & hand size to overall size is greater in adolescents.

For an exceptional story of the David, and many of Michelangelo's works, try The Agony and the Ecstasy.

"The Agony and the Ecstasy" is a great read if you're interested in the subject.